Proposed constitutional amendment aimed at preventing 'voter fatigue'

TAMPA (FOX 13) - So-called voter fatigue is already a concern of backers of a proposed constitutional amendment that would extend a property-tax cap, particularly because approval of the measure will require support from 60 percent of voters.

When they cast ballots in November, Floridians will decide the fate of the 13 proposed constitutional amendments, in addition to voting on federal, state, and local races.

The long list of ballot proposals worries supporters of Amendment 2, which would extend and make permanent a 10-percent cap on annual increases in assessed values of non-homesteaded properties.

“We are in a non-presidential election cycle, so there's going to be some voter fatigue and endurance issues, and we want to make sure when they get to Amendment 2 they're going to vote 'yes,'” said Patrick Sleven with the Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Another amendment on the November ballot would ban greyhound racing in the state. Kate MacFall, the Humane Society's Florida state director, believes the greyhound-racing ban, which she supports, can avoid problems with voter fatigue.

“People are aware of this issue, and have been for so many years,” MacFall said. “I think it will drive people to turn out, and they are committed to voting to protect dogs. We feel good about it, and I don’t think that the length of the ballot is a concern at all.”

In addition to Amendment 2, the Legislature also put two other proposals on the November ballot, while two more amendments are a result of petition drives. The Constitution Revision Commission added eight amendments, including the greyhound amendment, with six of the measures featuring two or more topics.